I'm proud to be linked with Real and Barcelona, admits Liverpool midfielder Mascherano

23 June 2009 03:16

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Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano admits he is flattered by the interest in him from Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Barca and Madrid have been strongly linked to the Argentina captain as they look to strengthen their squads this summer and the Liverpool man has taken great pride from that.
Mascherano, who still has three years left on his contract at Anfield, said: 'It's really flattering. For me it means great recognition because we are talking about big clubs.
'I feel comfortable at Liverpool, but it's always good to know that teams like Barca and Madrid are interested in you. I feel very grateful.'
Mascherano also spoke highly of Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez and believes he is delighted the Spaniard has recently signed a new contract that will keep him at Anfield until 2014.'(He is) excellent,' he said. 'He's a perfectionist, working down to the smallest detail that you can imagine.
'Fortunately he has renewed his contract, meaning his ties to the club continue and this will give more calm to everybody.'